School-based relief centers: A community level assessment and discussion

Wiley Thompson, MS

doi:10.5055/jem.2008.0046

Authors

Wiley Thompson, MS

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5055/jem.2008.0046

Keywords:

emergency preparedness, disaster preparedness, schools, emergency shelters, relief shelters, GIS

Abstract

An effective community relief center plan provides emergency managers with the ability to provide shelter and services to a population following the onset of a hazard and is a key component of emergency preparedness and disaster recovery. This paper presents a practical method whereby an assessment of schools as the basis of a community-wide relief center plan is made. The paper suggests desired characteristics of a relief center, details a selection methodology, and provides recommendations for implementation of a community relief center plan. Alternative considerations and the role of GIS are also discussed.

Author Biography

Wiley Thompson, MS

Geosciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon.

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